- Technology and Innovation
Liquid Cooled, Low Maintenance: Engineering the Ultimate Saltwater Workhorse
A Radical Departure from Convention
The maritime industry has long awaited an electric outboard that doesn’t feel like a compromise. At METSTRADE 2025, RAD Propulsion delivered exactly that, presenting a system designed from a clean slate to exploit the raw advantages of electric power. The RAD 40 isn’t just a motor; it is a compact engineering statement that reclaims the vessel’s deck space. Unlike traditional outboards that intrude into the cockpit when tilted, the RAD 40 remains tucked behind the transom, allowing boat builders and owners to maximize every inch of usable area.
Precision Under Pressure: 180° Steering
Manoeuvring in tight marinas often tests the mettle of even the most seasoned captains. RAD Propulsion addressed this by integrating 180-degree drive-by-wire electric steering. This allows for a full ±90° of articulation, providing unparalleled agility during low-speed manoeuvres. When paired with their smart steering wheel—which features variable resistance to limit angles at high speeds—the system delivers a level of intuitive control that makes docking in testing conditions feel effortless.
High Torque, Zero Maintenance
At the heart of the RAD 40 is a high-torque axial flux motor delivering 40 kW of continuous power, roughly equivalent to a 60 hp petrol outboard. What truly sets it apart for the gritty saltwater environment is the closed-circuit cooling system. With no external water intakes to clog and no impellers to fail, the maintenance schedule is virtually eliminated. This watertight, IP67-rated unit is built for the long haul, whether it’s powering a family tender or a rugged commercial workboat.
The Fast-Charging Architecture
In the premium world of yachting, time is the only non-renewable resource. The RAD 40 utilizes a 400V architecture, making it fully compatible with the rapidly expanding network of automotive-grade fast chargers. This technical choice ensures that “filling up” is no longer a multi-hour ordeal. Furthermore, the RADBus system offers a plug-and-play digital backbone, integrating NMEA2000, Wi-Fi, and GSM connectivity to keep the captain informed and the vessel connected.
The Future of the Marine Drive
The success of RAD Propulsion at METSTRADE 2025 signals a broader shift in naval architecture. By offering a complete end-to-end propulsion system—including the throttle, cables, and optional modular batteries—RAD has created a “Hybrid Architect” friendly solution that boat builders can easily adopt. This is quiet, sustainable power that doesn’t sell out on performance, proving that the future of the marine drive is smarter, sleeker, and undeniably electric.
